A New Way to See Venues.... Hmm, I Don't Get It.

A Multi-Venue Open House... What? Yeah, that's the reaction I've been getting. Sometimes, just because something is clear in your own mind, it doesn't translate well to others. This has been my experience with the concept for a really fantastic event that I'm a part of; Wedding Walk Tacoma. I can see so clearly how the concept makes amazing sense; 5 premier venues, some of them with historic significance  all having a no-holding-back, pull-out-all-the-stops, interactive open house tour, ON THE SAME DAY! In my mind, who'd want to miss that?! Well, I guess a person has to understand it, to know that they don't want to miss it. So, here it is, described as best I can....

• Get your tickets online, CHEAP, by signing up for an invite! www.weddingwalkyourcity.com/Membership.html
• There's a start point, to check in. The start point is at the 1st participating venue, where there is also great parking
• At the start point, ticket holders check in, then get "passport" that maps out the whole event. Follow it.
• At each venue there's a Planner table, that explains the thought process behind the design/theme of each space
• At each venue (there are 5 venues) the event spaces are fully decorated, as if you are at a wedding or party
• At each venue there are great eats, from leading caterers, who've set up just like they would for a stellar party
• At each venue there is a dessert or cake expert, also set up and serving
• At each venue there are additional event service professionals offering goods, and/or discounts 
• Many venues are offering other activities/entertainment: Photo Booth, Spa Services, Candy Buffet, Live Musicians & DJ's
• Get your passport stamped at each venue to be entered in a drawing for a FREE WEDDING/EVENT
• At the last venue, there's an after party

"Okay, really, why wouldn't someone want to spend an afternoon this way?", I ask myself. Ah, because this concept is new, innovative and people just don't "see" it quite yet. So, come try it. See for yourself what a great time this is! Even if you're not planning an event, THIS is an EVENT, and IT'S FUN!

WEDDING WALK TACOMA, Sunday Feb. 24th, Noon-5pm: www.weddingwalkyourcity.com/membership.html
www.agreaterplan.com

Event Tenting the Northwest; When the Rain Won't Go Away!

The Great Pacific Northwest can't be beat for sweeping views of mountain, sea and sky. It's majestic  magnificent, full of wonder, and ....wet.

When planning any outdoor event in Western Washington, or Oregon, or anywhere that rain can sweep though despite a sunny forecast, a Plan B, is crucial! Tenting is the answer. If you do it right, it even makes a beautiful Plan A. There are ways to keep views unobstructed, and guests dry, at the same time.

clear walls keep out the rain, but let in the pond, fountain and forest views

1. For a gorgeous outdoor venue, plan to have the ceremony outdoors, with the realistic view that it might have to move into the reception tent, in the case of rain. If a plan is already in place, this Plan B transition will go smoothly. One way to prep, in case of moving the ceremony, is to leave space on and around the tented dance floor, using that space to move the ceremony under cover.

2. If you're worried about a tent obstructing the view, splurge a little on clear side walls. You can keep the standard white tent (recommended if you're putting it up for shade), but have clear walls installed, so everyone can enjoy the surroundings. Keep in mind, a clear topped tent will steam up on a sunny day, just like a greenhouse would.

3. A standard white tent can be decorated in your colors by adding swagging to the sides and ceiling. At party suppliers, online, there are many different options for purchasing fabric yardage, specifically for event draping.

4. Light it up: remember that any outdoor event, tented or otherwise, will need ample lighting. Discuss options with your planner, the venue or the rental company, to be sure there is practical lighting and pretty (mood) lighting.